In the thermal decomposition of potassium chlorate given as 2KClO₃ → 2KCl + 3O₂, the law of mass action

• a.) Cannot be applied
• b.) Can be applied
• c.) Can be applied at low temperature
• d.) Can be applied at high temperature and pressure

The thermal decomposition of potassium chlorate, represented by the equation 2KClO₃ → 2KCl + 3O₂, involves a reaction that can be analyzed using the law of mass action.

Understanding the Law of Mass Action

The law of mass action states that the rate of a chemical reaction is proportional to the product of the concentrations of the reactants, each raised to a power corresponding to their coefficients in the balanced equation.

Application in Decomposition Reactions

In the case of potassium chlorate decomposition, the law can be applied under certain conditions. Specifically:

• High Temperature: At elevated temperatures, the reaction reaches equilibrium, allowing the law of mass action to be valid.
• Pressure Considerations: While pressure can influence gaseous reactions, it is primarily the temperature that affects the equilibrium in this case.

Final Thoughts

Therefore, the correct answer is d.) Can be applied at high temperature and pressure. This is when the law of mass action is most relevant for analyzing the equilibrium of the reaction.